INTERIOR FINISHES
areas. HBN 00-09: Infection Control in the Built Environment places particular emphasis on the control of infection, and highlights the major infection prevention and control (IPC) risks associated with building works in a healthcare environment.
In The Stanmore Building, close-up photographs from the natural world are incorporated into durable murals, fitted behind the beds on colour-themed floors. Each of the 94 murals features a unique image, personalising a bed space.
protection systems is also important, as it has a vital role in enhancing the environment for patients, providing information and spatial orientation, as well as having a positive effect on their wellbeing. For example, soft, natural shades and gentle pastels add calm and comfort, can be used to bring nature into interiors, and are ideal for creating healing healthcare environments. Colour can control bright reflected light, and make the most of available daylight and help reduce glare. The choice of colour is a relatively small investment, but has the potential to reap major dividends. In addition, durable wall finishes that incorporate patterns such as woodgrains are also ideal for the healthcare setting, as they can add warmth and create a more homely feel.
Hygiene and infection control One of the most important considerations when specifying interior finishes is ensuring that a healthcare environment
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has been designed to support infection control. This can make the job of healthcare providers easier, and in the wake of highly transmissible diseases such as COVID, may even save lives. Infection prevention and control requirements must be considered at the earliest stages of the design process, not only for new-build facilities, but also in the refurbishment of existing estate. All finishes used should therefore be chosen with cleaning in mind, and shouldn’t promote or sustain the growth of microorganisms. Surfaces which feature bacteria-resistant properties will play an increasingly important role across the healthcare sector in the years ahead.
Minimising maintenance Materials and finishes should also be selected to minimise maintenance, and be compatible with their intended function and lifespan or duration of use. Smooth, seamless, and impervious surfaces are particularly recommended for clinical
All finishes should be chosen with cleaning in mind, and shouldn’t promote or sustain the growth of microorganisms. Surfaces which feature bacteria- resistant properties will play an increasingly important role across the sector in the years ahead
48 Health Estate Journal September 2022
Built to last The interior fabric of hospitals and healthcare facilities should always be designed to a level of quality and durability that will endure many decades. Considering robust interior finishes for building areas at risk of impact damage or extensive wear and tear may incur greater upfront cost, but offers savings throughout a building’s lifecycle, and less downtime in times of refurbishment. Early consultation between the healthcare provider, designers, and Facilities Management teams, should be undertaken to ensure an appropriate strategy on damage avoidance. This should be based on a full risk assessment of potential damage sources and at-risk areas. In terms of guidelines, HBN 00-10: Part B: Walls and ceilings specifies the performance requirements and the types of finishes for different areas, and suggests additional protection measures where necessary. To ensure that interior spaces in healthcare facilities are resilient and aesthetically pleasing, consideration should always be given to their functional needs, the type of activity taking place in them, and the anticipated level of damage, including its source. Wall protection solutions, which are purpose-designed to prevent impact damage and to be easy to clean and maintain, are particularly recommended for busy circulation routes, communal zones, lift lobbies, and areas where equipment is manoeuvred around.
Impact protection systems The deployment of impact protection systems in those areas will enhance the building’s long-term appearance, functionality, and maintainability. In main circulation routes, crash rails and corner protectors guard against equipment, trolley, or wheelchair impact, which could result in unsightly cracks that harbour germs and bacteria. Where larger surfaces require protecting, durable, impact- resistant wallcoverings applied to walls, doors, or reception desks, should support infection control practices, and be able to withstand stringent cleaning regimes without surface degradation. The level and intensity of damage,
as well as its source, will vary across different areas in hospitals, clinics. and other healthcare facilities, and wall protection solutions should be selected accordingly. For example, in waiting areas, where damage would typically be caused by chairs, simple rub rails may be sufficient, while busy circulation routes
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